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Articles by Jaron Pak
Why The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 3 Is A Soft Reboot Original
"The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" has been building toward an ambitious five-season arc from day one. Showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay had mapped out the entire story and even knew what the last shot would be when Season 1 came out.
Patrick Stewart Redefined What A Sci-Fi Action Hero Could Be Original
Sci-fi is typically defined by swashbuckling heroes in daring action dramas. Fans enjoy characters like Captain Kirk, Han Solo, and Star-Lord in spectacle-driven space operas and galactic spaghetti Westerns, including "Star Wars," the original "Star Trek" series, "Firefly," "Guardians of the Galaxy," and "Cowboy Bebop." But every once in a while, you get someone who redefines what it means to be an off-world action hero.
Dune's Gholas Explained: How Jason Momoa Returns As Hayt In Dune 3
We live in a world where characters are constantly being brought back after appearing to die (thanks a lot, Marvel multiverse). But in "Dune: Part Three," things are different: We're getting back a character in a unique (and dare we say, well-earned) way that finally doesn't feel like a cheat code. Jason Momoa played Duncan Idaho, the beloved swordmaster in "Dune: Part One," who gave his life to save his lord, Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet), from the clutches of his enemies.
Orlando Bloom's Lord Of The Rings Haircut Was Perfect For One Off-Set Activity
At a recent partial reunion for the cast of "The Lord of the Rings," Legolas actor Orlando Bloom shared how some of the actors bonded through off-set activities while filming in the paradise of New Zealand. He explained that he used to get away for the weekend with the four Hobbit actors, Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd. They would rent a bach (a Kiwi term for a seaside villa), cook out, and go surfing.
How To Read All 7 Chronicles Of Narnia Books In Order Original
C.S. Lewis' "The Chronicles of Narnia" is best known for "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." That story was the first book published in the series and the first movie adapted by Walt Disney Studios in 2005. But it isn't the beginning of the story. That honor goes to "The Magician's Nephew," which was published fully half a decade later. That chronological reality is why Greta Gerwig's reboot of the franchise has opted to skip "Wardrobe" and adapt "The Magician's Nephew" first. And that book?
What Role Do The Nazgûl Play In The Rings Of Power's Second Age Story?
"The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" Season 3 is going to show us the earliest days of the Nazgûl — or the "Nazgnagôl," as showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay have dubbed them in their Second Age adaptation. Remember, Season 2 gave us the Nine Rings for Mortal Men. By the finale, the Nine were forged, and Sauron had them in hand, but they weren't on any fingers yet.
What Role Do The Nazgûl Play In The Rings Of Power's Second Age Story?
"The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" Season 3 is going to show us the earliest days of the Nazgûl — or the "Nazgnagôl," as showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay have dubbed them in their Second Age adaptation. Remember, Season 2 gave us the Nine Rings for Mortal Men. By the finale, the Nine were forged, and Sauron had them in hand, but they weren't on any fingers yet.
The Palantiri: Tolkien's seeing stones explained
The Palantiri: Tolkien's Seeing Stones Explained Middle-earth is filled with all sorts of strange items and possessions. Necklaces, gems, weapons, and, of course, rings all feature prominently in J.R.R. Tolkien 's stories. In spite of all of the enchanted trinkets hanging around, there's one super-powered curio that doesn't really get its fair share of attention: the palantíri. It's a strange title that fairweather fans of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings films probably won't even recognize.
Dune's Bene Gesserit Explained: Everything You Need To Know
There are several major groups that keep the gears of the "Dune" universe turning. While some factions, like the Great Houses and the Emperor, operate in the open, others are more comfortable pulling the strings from the shadows. The Bene Gesserit is one of these latter groups, but don't let their quiet approach to politics fool you. This shadow organization of undercover women represents one of the most powerful political and economic forces in the Imperium.
Dune's Bene Gesserit Explained: Everything You Need To Know
The universe of "Dune" includes the Bene Gesserit Order, a secretive organization of women with intricate, multigenerational goals. We'll explain the details. There are several major groups that keep the gears of the "Dune" universe turning. While some factions, like the Great Houses and the Emperor, operate in the open, others are more comfortable pulling the strings from the shadows. The Bene Gesserit is one of these latter groups, but don't let their quiet approach to politics fool you.
Dune's Bene Gesserit Explained: Everything You Need To Know
Coal 4 hours ago Couple Who Bought Abandoned N.Y.C. Property from the 1800s Make ‘Extraordinary’ Discovery in Basement (Exclusive) People - Tereza Shkurtaj • 4h A forgotten piece of paper hung on a basement wall of an old Brooklyn lodging house turned out to be one of James and Laureta Gale’s most meaningful discoveries during their restoration of the building, which they named Halsey.
The Lord Of The Rings: How Gandalf Comes Back To Life Explained
In "The Fellowship of the Ring," Gandalf falls in an epic battle with the Balrog of Moria. Then, he makes a miraculous return in "The Two Towers" as Gandalf the White. While we get a little context in the movies, Tolkien's books help explain how this is possible. The short version is that Gandalf can come back to life because he never really dies in the first place.
The Lord Of The Rings: How Gandalf Comes Back To Life Explained
In "The Fellowship of the Ring," Gandalf falls in an epic battle with the Balrog of Moria. Then, he makes a miraculous return in "The Two Towers" as Gandalf the White. While we get a little context in the movies, Tolkien's books help explain how this is possible. The short version is that Gandalf can come back to life because he never really dies in the first place.
Who The Strongest Man In Lord Of The Rings Lore Really Was
There are a lot of powerful beings in "The Lord of the Rings." Some are mentally tough, like Elrond and Faramir. Others are spiritually tough, like Sam and Frodo (who is the greatest hero of the story). Some wield incredible magic, like Gandalf and Galadriel. And then there are the bruisers, the tough guys, the muscle. Tolkien often talks about Men in terms of being physically "strong" — and there's one guy who he calls out as uniquely powerful: Húrin Thalion.
Who The Strongest Man In Lord Of The Rings Lore Really Was
There are plenty of contenders, but to find the strongest Man in the history of "The Lord of the Rings," we have to go back to Middle-earth's early days. There are a lot of powerful beings in "The Lord of the Rings." Some are mentally tough, like Elrond and Faramir. Others are spiritually tough, like Sam and Frodo (who is the greatest hero of the story). Some wield incredible magic, like Gandalf and Galadriel. And then there are the bruisers, the tough guys, the muscle.
Why Gandalf Was Forbidden From Using His Full Power In Lord Of The Rings Original
Throughout "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" stories, it's abundantly clear that Gandalf is a powerful force to be reckoned with. But there are also moments when it's clear that he's holding back. Why the restraint? Because the Wizard has been forbidden from using his full power in Middle-earth.
Hobbits' Mushroom Obsession Barely Made It Into The Lord Of The Rings Films
J.R.R. Tolkien's Hobbits absolutely love mushrooms. However, this obsession wasn't explored and touched on much in "The Lord of the Rings" films. There's a classic scene in the movie "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" that references mushrooms, not once but twice. As Frodo (Elijah Wood) and Sam (Sean Astin) are exiting the Shire to begin their quest, they're intercepted by Merry (Dominic Monaghan) and Pippin (Billy Boyd) carrying a bundle of fresh-picked groceries.
The Only Recap You Need Before The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 3
"The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" returns on November 11 with Season 3, which will finally give us the forging of the One Ring — and it's about time. The Season 2 finale was more than two years ago, creating yet another massive gap between season releases (a trend that is all too common these days). The release plan for Season 3 is a bit different than the first two.
The Only Recap You Need Before The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power Season 3
"The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power" returns on November 11 with Season 3, which will finally give us the forging of the One Ring — and it's about time. The Season 2 finale was more than two years ago, creating yet another massive gap between season releases (a trend that is all too common these days). The release plan for Season 3 is a bit different than the first two.
Every Major House & Faction In Dune Explained
Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" films make plenty of changes to Frank Herbert's books. One is necessarily limiting screen time for several of the major houses and factions within the story. We hear about a few key groups, like House Harkonnen and House Atreides. There's also the House of Corrino, which holds the Padishah Emperor Shaddam IV and Princess Irulan (played by Christopher Walken and Florence Pugh, respectively, in "Dune: Part Two").
Every Major House & Faction In Dune Explained
"Dune" is a sprawling universe of politics and mysticism, with dozens of factions vying for some level of power. We break down who the biggest players are. Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" films make plenty of changes to Frank Herbert's books. One is necessarily limiting screen time for several of the major houses and factions within the story. We hear about a few key groups, like House Harkonnen and House Atreides.
LOTR Fans Want WB To Release A 'Mithril Edition' Cut Of Peter Jackson's Trilogy
Fans have long been pressing for an even longer "Mithril Cut" of the Lord of the Rings trilogy. It's no secret that J.R.R. Tolkien fans love a long yarn.
Why Aragorn Lives So Long In The Lord Of The Rings Original
When Éowyn tries to guess Aragorn's age in "The Two Towers," she's shocked to discover that he's in his late 80s. Despite his looks, Aragorn is one of the older members of the Fellowship of the Ring. But how? Gandalf is an angelic Wizard, so his age makes sense. Legolas is an immortal Elf. Dwarves live for centuries. But Aragorn is a dude. He's a man.
What Happened To Isengard After The Lord Of The Rings
Saruman's fortress of Isengard goes through a lot of trauma during "The Lord of the Rings." First, it's transformed from a beautiful fortress into an industrial hub of evil activity. Then, the Ents stomp-smash it into oblivion. They even go so far as to flood the entire area to trap Saruman. One thing we don't get to see in the movies, though, is what happens to the area after the Wizard dies and the War of the Ring ends.
What Happened To Isengard After The Lord Of The Rings
Saruman's fortress of Isengard goes through a lot of trauma during "The Lord of the Rings." First, it's transformed from a beautiful fortress into an industrial hub of evil activity. Then, the Ents stomp-smash it into oblivion. They even go so far as to flood the entire area to trap Saruman. One thing we don't get to see in the movies, though, is what happens to the area after the Wizard dies and the War of the Ring ends.
Every MCU character who wore Iron Man armor in the Infinity Saga
Every MCU Character Who Wore Iron Man Armor In The Infinity Saga The Marvel Cinematic Universe has become an entertainment behemoth that effortlessly weaves science and magic together into one non-stop parade of fun. If there's one thing that's been at the center of the otherworldly wonder since day one, though, it has to be Tony Stark's tech.
The Lord Of The Rings: What Happened To Middle-Earth After Sauron's Defeat Original
"The Lord of the Rings" ends with the downfall of Sauron as Middle-earth is released from his menacing threat. But what happens next? The short answer is that life goes on — at least for certain mortals, like Humans. For others, like Elves, Dwarves, and even the distant Human relatives, Hobbits, the post-story epilogue is a more depressing slog into uncertainty. Before digging into the specific epilogues for each group, though, let's set the scene.
Lord Of The Rings: Tom Bombadil's Wife Goldberry, Daughter Of The River, Explained
Anyone who has read "The Lord of the Rings" knows about Tom Bombadil. The jolly, overpowered character is a mystery. J.R.R. Tolkien denied that he represented God, called Tom an intentional enigma, and freely admitted that the merry fellow wasn't necessary to the primary story, which explains his being unceremoniously cut by Peter Jackson when he adapted it to the silver screen. Sure, there are some Jackson hints at Bombadil in a deleted scene, but that's about it.
What The Other Wizards Were Doing During The Lord Of The Rings
There are five Wizards in "The Lord of the Rings," all told. These aren't your traditional run-of-the-mill sorcerers and magic wielders, though. Tolkien's uppercase "W" Wizards refer to a quintet of angelic individuals who are sent to Middle-earth wrapped in old-man bodies to assist the Free Peoples in the fight against the Dark Lord Sauron. That said, where are these five guys when the fighting breaks out in "The Lord of the Rings" story? We know Gandalf gets the job done.
What The Other Wizards Were Doing During The Lord Of The Rings
There are five Wizards in "The Lord of the Rings," all told. These aren't your traditional run-of-the-mill sorcerers and magic wielders, though. Tolkien's uppercase "W" Wizards refer to a quintet of angelic individuals who are sent to Middle-earth wrapped in old-man bodies to assist the Free Peoples in the fight against the Dark Lord Sauron. That said, where are these five guys when the fighting breaks out in "The Lord of the Rings" story? We know Gandalf gets the job done.
What Happened To Rivendell After The Lord Of The Rings
Rivendell is a really important location in J.R.R. Tolkien's world of Middle-earth. We've also seen Rivendell teased in Amazon Studios' "The Rings of Power" series, where we can expect to see the establishment of the Elven fortress before long. But while we know Rivendell is built in the Second Age, when does it stop being populated by its immortal inhabitants? We know it's still around when "The Lord of the Rings" ends an age and a half later.
What Happened To Rivendell After The Lord Of The Rings
Rivendell is a really important location in J.R.R. Tolkien's world of Middle-earth. We've also seen Rivendell teased in Amazon Studios' "The Rings of Power" series, where we can expect to see the establishment of the Elven fortress before long. But while we know Rivendell is built in the Second Age, when does it stop being populated by its immortal inhabitants? We know it's still around when "The Lord of the Rings" ends an age and a half later.
Everybody Loves Raymond: How Many Seasons Are In The Hit Sitcom?
"Everybody Loves Raymond" had a good, long run, but how many seasons are there total in the hit sitcom? And what did the show cover from season to season? Ray Romano's series "Everybody Loves Raymond" occupies a prestigious position in the pantheon of classic sitcoms. The prime-time staple ran for nine seasons, from 1996 to 2005.
How Old Is Gandalf From Lord Of The Rings?
Everyone knows Gandalf (Ian McKellen) is old, but what's his age? In Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers," the wizard says, "300 lives of Men I've walked this earth, and now I have no time." While this gives the impression of longevity, measuring by lifespans is vague and inconsistent; many of Aragorn's Númenórean ancestors lived for multiple average lifespans. The other issue is that Gandalf's line in the movie doesn't come from the book.
The Real Reason George Lucas Killed Qui-Gon Jinn In Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
"Star Wars: Episode I" may have been a swing and a miss for many fans, but it has its fair share of iconic moments.
How Long Was Rocky In The Tau Ceti System In Project Hail Mary?
When Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) reaches the Tau Ceti system in "Project Hail Mary," we learn that he's been on a multi-year journey. According to the "Project Hail Mary" timeline, Grace has been en route for three years, while 13 years have passed back on Earth due to time dilation. One thing we don't find out, though, is how long Rocky has been in the area. The Eridian alien just shows up, and no one says a word — at least in the movie.
How Long Was Rocky In The Tau Ceti System In Project Hail Mary?
When Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) reaches the Tau Ceti system in "Project Hail Mary," we learn that he's been on a multi-year journey. According to the "Project Hail Mary" timeline, Grace has been en route for three years, while 13 years have passed back on Earth due to time dilation. One thing we don't find out, though, is how long Rocky has been in the area. The Eridian alien just shows up, and no one says a word — at least in the movie.
Andy Serkis' Gollum Voice Has A Gross Origin (Especially If You're A Dog Person)
Andy Serkis has shared plenty of stories over the years about how he practiced the physical motions and got into character for his iconic role as Gollum in Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy. But it was the origin of his take on the Gollum voice itself — and specifically the "gollum" sound — that turned out to be one of the most fascinating and odd journeys of them all.
The Complete History Of Dune's Sandworms Explained
Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" movies are full of spectacle: There's political drama. There's futuristic choreographed fighting. There's plenty of trippy spice-induced behavior. There's full-on war. And then there are worms — really big worms — who haunt the sandy dunes of the planet Arrakis. These are the biggest reveal of the movies.
The Complete History Of Dune's Sandworms Explained
Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" movies are full of spectacle: There's political drama. There's futuristic choreographed fighting. There's plenty of trippy spice-induced behavior. There's full-on war. And then there are worms — really big worms — who haunt the sandy dunes of the planet Arrakis. These are the biggest reveal of the movies.
Why Bilbo Left Middle-Earth At The End Of The Lord Of The Rings
While "The Lord of the Rings" is a story of the triumph of good over evil, it has a surprisingly downbeat ending. One of the most interesting twists is that Bilbo, who plays a minor role in the story after "The Hobbit," ends up heading West, too. J.R.R. Tolkien provided a few reasons for Bilbo's special permission into the Undying Lands in the West.
Why Bilbo Left Middle-Earth At The End Of The Lord Of The Rings
While "The Lord of the Rings" is a story of the triumph of good over evil, it has a surprisingly downbeat ending. One of the most interesting twists is that Bilbo, who plays a minor role in the story after "The Hobbit," ends up heading West, too. J.R.R. Tolkien provided a few reasons for Bilbo's special permission into the Undying Lands in the West.
The 5 biggest Lord of the Rings mysteries, ranked (and solved?)
The 5 Biggest Lord Of The Rings Mysteries, Ranked (And Solved?) One of the most endearing things about Middle-earth is the unexplored size and mystery of the world that J.R.R. Tolkien created. The author himself clearly didn't have everything worked out and was constantly tweaking and adjusting things.
Tolkien Denied That This Lord Of The Rings Character Is God - But He May Be More
Tom Bombadil is a puzzle to readers of J.R.R. Tolkien's books. Peter Jackson axed the colorful character of unknown origin from his movies, as Bombadil threw off the larger narrative and was an easy section to cut without significant repercussions.
Lord Of The Rings: This Gandalf Scene In Return Of The King Makes Zero Sense
Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy is chock-full of good stuff. The adaptive genius paints a compelling picture of J. R. R. Tolkien's timeless tale that speaks to both diehard and fairweather fans alike. However, the Kiwi and his crew weren't flawless in their adaptation. There are plenty of both minor and major errors throughout the "Lord of the Rings" movies.
Why Stewards Ruled Gondor Before Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King Original
One of the main storylines of "The Lord of the Rings" is the return of Aragorn as the King of Gondor. But while Aragorn does become the new king by the end of the story, it isn't really clear why there isn't a king before him. Denethor is ruling Gondor, but he's a steward, not a king. Why is that, and why is Aragorn able to waltz in, claim the throne, and rule as a monarch? The answer comes about a millennium before "The Lord of the Rings" story begins, when the last king of Gondor disappears.
Why Stewards Ruled Gondor Before Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King
Platinum 1 hour ago Orlando Bloom Shares a Rare Glimpse of 6-Year-Old Daughter Daisy’s Platinum Blonde Curls InStyle - Lara Walsh • 1h The ‘Lord of the Rings’ actor also appeared to soft-launch his relationship with Luisa Laemmel. Orlando Bloom was in doting dad mode as he shared a rare glimpse of his summer adventures with his 6-year-old daughter Daisy.
This Horrific Finding Nemo Theory Changes Everything About Marlin
The Internet has many purposes, but none of them play a more integral role in the fabric of society than its ability to provide an endless stream of outlandish fan theories dissecting pop culture and entertainment. Some of these barely make sense, while others shine a critical — though at times all-too-uncomfortable — light on the reality of things that audiences take for granted. One theory that falls in the latter category was put out by TikTok influencer @mndiaye_97.
Why the Office rarely had celebrities play themselves
"The Office" carved out its place in television history despite a reputation for not leaning heavily on big-name actors or celebrity cameos (like when "The Simpsons" got Lindsay Lohan to voice Maggie ). The lack of recognizable faces wasn't due to a lack of interest from Hollywood A-listers, either. It was a deliberate decision from the show's creative team — despite plenty of pressure from NBC to the contrary.
Why the Office rarely had celebrities play themselves
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